The metal bridge over the Révuè River, located along Regional Road 260 (ER-260) in Sussundenga district, Manica province, collapsed again on Wednesday, 4 November, after a truck carrying crushed stone with excess load crossed the structure, causing a fresh disruption to road traffic in the region.

According to a report by the Mozambique Information Agency, the incident occurred less than a week after traffic had been restored on the same structure on 29 October, following a similar failure.

In response to the recurring damage, the National Roads Administration (ANE) announced the launch of emergency works to reinforce the metal structure, with the aim of restoring traffic within 15 days.

According to the institution, a contractor is already on site carrying out repairs, while technical teams from ANE and other specialised bodies are assessing alternatives for the construction of a new concrete bridge.

The technical assessment also includes the possibility of rehabilitating and reinforcing the concrete structure of the old bridge, which is currently in an advanced state of deterioration. The bridge provides road access to Sussundenga district and other areas of Manica province, making it important for the movement of people and the transport of goods.

Following the incident, Manica governor Francisca Tomás visited the site on Thursday, 5 November, and recommended the immediate deployment of a vessel to ensure the crossing of people and goods during the interruption period.

She also called on transporters and other road users to respect vehicle load limits in order to prevent further damage and risks to road safety.